Michael Vance Gifford, son of George and Lila (Bryant) Gifford, was born August 2, 1954 in Blue Island, Illinois. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by family at his home in Harlan, Iowa on November 17, 2016 attaining the age of sixty-two years, three months and fifteen days.
Mike was an avid Florida State Seminoles football fan. He especially loved watching the Chicago Cubs and was thrilled to see them win the World Series this fall. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle and gardening. Mike loved music and made everyone laugh with his wacky sense of humor. He also enjoyed barbecuing for family and friends, which often included a game of washers.
In addition to his father, Mike was preceded in death by brothers Wallace and Alan Gifford. He is survived by his wife, Diana Gifford of Harlan; their children: Sean Gifford and Michael Gifford of Iowa; Christopher Gifford and Connor Gifford of Harlan and Amie and her husband Matthew Thiel of Treynor, Iowa; nine grandchildren; his mother Lila Gifford of Martinsville, Indiana; brother Gary Gifford and his wife Joan of Dresser, Wisconsin; his sister, Joan and her late husband Kenneth Fuglestad of Martinsville, Indiana; nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Memorials are suggested in Mike's memory in lieu of flowers.
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